Be aware before continuing that this page will contain some medical information and references to self-harming methods.

Staying Safe

The following section provides information about keeping yourself safe while self-harming. Whilst we don’t encourage self-harm, we do understand that for some people self-harm is a way of coping with emotional distress. For those who are using self-harm as a coping mechanism, we encourage taking steps to keep yourself safe.

Why?

It may seem confusing, but it is possible to take care of yourself and keep damage to a minimum while you self-harm. Sometimes it is necessary to seek additional medical help for injuries so it is important that you know what to look out for.

Limit the damage

• Avoid mixing self-harm with drugs or alcohol. It might make you go further than you mean to.
• Always clean the things you are using to harm yourself first. Putting them in boiling water or using a sterilising fluid can reduce the risk of infection. Never share them with others!
• Remember sharp implements become blunter over time so they might not work in the same way as before. Replace them regularly and test the pressure you use on something else before yourself – orange peel is useful for this.
• Know your body – Depending on the method of self-harm, there may be a serious risk of damage to different parts of the body. Inform yourself about the possible impacts – What is under the skin? What are the effects of a drug? How does limiting food affect natural processes?
• Be aware that over-the-counter drugs are dangerous too, even a small overdose can have serious side effects, especially with paracetamol.
• Try not to self-harm if you are really wound-up. Try a few relaxation techniques, or get away from things you can hurt yourself with.

Take care of yourself

• Keep a first aid kit nearby to look after injuries – antiseptic creams and wipes, plasters, and non-stick dressings are recommended.
• Clean cuts gently before applying a clean non-stick dressing.
• Cool burns under cold running water for at least 10 minutes.
• For more information on first aid click here.
• Be kind to yourself – your body has experienced a shock so take some time to rest and comfort yourself.

Warning signs

Sometimes the result of self-harm requires urgent medical attention from trained medical staff. The things to look out for are:

• Deep or wide cuts.
• Bleeding that spurts or won’t stop.
• Burns or scalds that are bigger than a 50p.
• Signs of infection such as the area being red, hot, swollen, or oozing pus.
• Drug overdoses.
• Ingestion of poisons.

Urgent medical help can be found at an Accident and Emergency department, call: 999 if you cannot make your own way there. You can take a friend, family member or supporter with you if you want.

Scared to go to A&E? Take a friend or someone who can support you, don’t feel ashamed or that you’re wasting people’s time, you still deserve respect when you feel you need support.

If you are experiencing overwhelming thoughts and/or feelings to hurt yourself, you can find out about immediate and emotional support which is available to support you 24/7 by clicking here.